Godmanchester Rovers boss on his side's magnificent run

When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they’ll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. OurPrivacy Noticeexplains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Manager Ollie Drake has put Godmanchester Rovers' superb recent run of form down to nothing more than hard work.

Goddy have shot up to fifth in the Thurlow Nunn Premier standings after Boxing Day's 2-1 win over Newmarket Town made it eight games unbeaten, seven of which have been wins.

In fact, since losing to runaway league leaders Felixstowe & Walton at the end of October, Goddy have won nine out of 11 games, their only defeat being the FA Vase exit to Deeping Rangers.

“I'm delighted – we're seeing a real different side to the team now,” said Drake. “We've got a very mature bunch of players who are now managing games well and making the right decisions, which has been a key factor.

“The atmosphere in the dressing room is second to none now and it's my job to make sure it stays that way. We need to keep this run going now as we're only one point off Brantham with a game in hand.

“The people behind the scenes are backing everything we do and getting extra sponsorship in so we can sign players, as we don't have the biggest of budgets, but the work rate of every single player has been exceptional – they've taken it to the next level.”

Return: Austin Diaper (Image: Samuel Ashby)

Having brought one former player back from Newmarket in the shape of Charlie Bowen, Drake added another just before the Christmas in the shape of Austen Diaper.

Both starred in the festive win over their former club, with Bowen even opening the scoring, while winger Jack Chandler struck the winner.

“Charlie has made a massive difference for us, and Austen will be massive for us too,” said Drake. “Jack is doing well too after coming with me from Hardwick, having never played at this level before, and he is coping well with the step up.”

Goddy could climb into the top four if they keep their run going with a win at home to Stanway Rovers tomorrow, but Drake still refuses to change his season's aim.

“It's been a great run, but we're still only looking to finish as high as we can and won't be putting any pressure on the players,” he added.